Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has reaffirmed his commitment to overhauling Ghana’s public transport sector by transitioning from diesel and petrol vehicles to electric alternatives.
Speaking to supporters in the Greater Accra Region as part of his campaign tour, Dr Bawumia emphasized that this reform aims to reduce transportation costs nationwide.
On September 4, 2024, Dr. Bawumia visited the Okaikoi South Constituency, accompanied by government officials and campaign team members. During his visit, he engaged with traders at the Kaneshie market, sharing elements of his manifesto and seeking their support.
At a rally held at the Kaneshie market, Dr Bawumia detailed his vision for his potential administration, including a promise to eliminate import duties on mobile phones.
“If I become president,” he stated, “there will be no more import duties on mobile phones,” which he believes will make phones more affordable and accessible to Ghanaians.
The NPP flagbearer also outlined plans to introduce electric vehicles to enhance the public transport system.
He noted that high transportation costs are primarily driven by fuel and spare parts, which electric vehicles would mitigate. Dr. Bawumia revealed that 100 electric cars have been ordered and are expected to arrive in Ghana before December for a pilot program in Accra.
In addition to transport reforms, Dr. Bawumia highlighted achievements in the education sector, including the completion of laptop distribution to all teachers in the country—a milestone he claims no other African government has matched.
During his visit to the Okaikoi Central Constituency, Dr Bawumia and his team were welcomed by local MP Patrick Yaw Boamah and chiefs and religious leaders at a durbar.
He also announced the introduction of a ‘Buy Ghana First’ policy, which will be supported by legislation to encourage citizens to prioritize locally-made goods over imports.
The day’s campaign tour concluded with a large rally in the Okaikoi North Constituency, held at Lapaz.